Steelhead Obsession: Oregon's North Coast with Matt Thornton
Episode 176 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – July 30, 2026.
Our destination is Oregon's North Coast with diehard steelhead guide Matt Thornton who covers the obsessed steelhead culture of the North Coast, why mindset is everything, and the incredible run they've had this year. Matt also shares stories of snorkeling for steelhead, teaching clients to fight steelhead with his Lab, and the long odds—and big rewards—of spey casting.
Stick around to the end to learn about Matt's conservation organization, The Wilderness Calling which is researching steelhead migration patterns…you might be surprised by what they're learning.
In this episode:
· Why Oregon's North Coast has become one of the world's premier wild steelhead destinations.
· The unique culture of spey fishing—and why steelheaders willingly endure the "fish of a thousand casts."
· Why mindset may be the most important skill a steelhead angler can develop.
· Matt's unforgettable story of snorkeling a run and discovering fish where everyone thought there were none.
· How steelhead behavior can surprise even the most experienced anglers.
· Teaching clients to fight steelhead with his Labrador, Boomhauer.
· This year's outstanding steelhead run and what made it so special.
· Matt’s favorite fly pattern and color.
· The mission of The Wilderness Calling and the cutting-edge research they are doing using $5,000 tracking tracking tags.
· Why understanding steelhead migration could have a major impact on future conservation efforts.
With host Steve Haigh | Destination Angler Podcast — THE podcast for anglers who travel.
Connect with Matt: Instagram: @the_wilderness_calling
https://www.thewildernesscalling.org/ | info@thewildernesscalling.org | 907.602.6759
Book a trip with Matt: Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters
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Recorded June 5, 2026
